In a Nutshell: Regulations according to human precepts and teachings have an appearance of wisdom in promoting a self-made religion, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh. Elsewhere Paul said, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age." Titus 2:11-12

Ice Breaker: Can you recall a time you felt deceived, trapped and maybe "disqualified" for something that you had greatly anticipated, only to find all your efforts were useless?

What all can we know about the "elemental spirits of the world" according to Col. 2:20-23?

What three things did Paul tell the Colossians to not allow to happen to them? Col. 2:8,16,18

What is the "circumcision not done with human hands" and when does it seem to take place? Col. 2:11-15; Rom. 6:4

What does Paul say is "the substance," and what are only "shadows" of that substance?

What is the source of the problem for the one that teaches things that can "disqualify" someone spiritually? Col. 2:18-19

In Col 2:22,23 Paul tells us what has "no value in "stopping the indulgence of the flesh," What then does help stop this indulgence? Titus 2:11,12

REFLECTING ON YOUR LIFE:

Have you ever noticed a time/situation when more rules seemed to make a person misbehave more?

What was the problem? Did you find a solution? If so, what was it?

Which do you find easier, obeying a list of rules or "expressing your faith through love?" (Gal. 5:6)

Which do you find simpler and more effective, obeying a list of rules, or "expressing your faith in Jesus through love?" (Gal. 5:6)

CONNECTING WITH YOUR CHURCH:

How should a church balance the need for promoting the "faith expressed through love" and establishing "rules" to be followed?

How would you react to a church program that emphasized teaching parents how to "disciple" their children through a faith journey? Would you attend such classes? Would you help teach such a class? Would you mentor another family? Would you seek to be mentored?

Doug Delp

This blog is designed to be a spiritual resource for those seeking to live intentional and Christ-centered lives. I hope it will create a hunger to look longer, deeper, or anticipation for a time when everything that matters will finally be made clear!